UCSD vs UCLA neuroscience

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of California - San Diego
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<p>UCLA vs UCSD neuroscience
so i was recently admitted to both UCLA and UCSD in neuroscience (yay!) (UCSD= neuroscience & physiology) but I'm having a really hard time deciding between the two. Factors under consideration include:</p>

<ol>
<li><p>I'm considering pre-med, but I'm not a hundred percent sure I will do this track. SD offers a strong bio program, which means that if I interchange within the different bio majors, I will still be receiving a strong science education. On the other hand, LA is more prestigious in a variety of fields, not just bio, which means that I can consider more fields if I decide to switch.</p></li>
<li><p>I've heard that SD's neuroscience program is more graduate-oriented whereas LA's program is more undergraduate focused. I was wondering if anyone (alumni, students?) could help me out? Like I understand that GE's are probably all lectures of up to 700+ students for both schools, but I was wondering in terms of the neuro department, where would there be smaller, more focused classes? Which school would be better for undergraduate neuro studies?</p></li>
<li><p>The vibe. LA seems to portray a more "full college experience" than SD in terms of social life, but I've also heard that SD is more focused for studying. Also, Los Angeles is pretty appealing to me... but I've never been to La Jolla, so... Anyone have any other opinions?</p></li>
<li><p>Internships: I'm sure LA has plenty of opportunities, but there seems to be an abundance of biotech companies at SD. Does anyone know how hard it is to secure research/internship positions at either of these schools?</p></li>
<li><p>I'm also considering minoring in film studies and/or music. (if that matters?</p></li>
</ol>

<p>I'm an international student and I probably won't have the chance to actually visit campus so any input would be appreciated!! If there are any other factors I should consider please feel free to chime in!</p>

<p>p.s. fin aid for both schools are pretty much the same (LA only gave a bit more by the slightest of margins). Thanks in advance!!</p>

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<p>bummmp. anyone? any advice would be greatly appreciated!! thanks</p>

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<p>Hey cheecheelin. Although I am still waiting a decision for transfer, I am in the same boat as you are with regard to choosing a neuro program, and I am also going the pre-med route. I started a thread here looking to ask current SD N&P students some questions, but I didn’t get any response. I’m wondering if there is another avenue for us to contact someone from the program considering that we aren’t getting anyone here.</p>

<p>My personal opinion on your decision if you do go the pre-med route is that there won’t be any real significant difference between LA and SD when it comes to how they assess you as an applicant. You will have opportunities to get your research, and really great research, at either institution. Both are really strong in the sciences, and both are competitive. That being said, I think you should make your decision based on which place will make you happy and will foster a well rounded life experience. I, myself, am an older student, so being a part of a bustling social scene isn’t really a priority for me as I have experience there. I will likely opt for the more tranquil and peaceful environment at SD because it will better complement this stage of my life.</p>

<p>Best of luck to you.</p>

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<p>I already answered a fairly similiar question here: (mostly about everything I love about the school :P)
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-california-san-diego/1476705-ucd-vs-uci-vs-ucsd.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/university-california-san-diego/1476705-ucd-vs-uci-vs-ucsd.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

<p>In addition to that I dont get why being graduate focused would be a bad thing. That provides way more opportunity for the undergrad to get involved (grad students love help :wink: ). I guess that also answers your internship question. Plus you can start building stronger connections with more successful people earlier in your career.</p>